Bill > LD1708

This bill establishes the Commercial Fishing Safety Fund within the Maine Department of Marine Resources to support safety improvements and search and rescue operations in the commercial fishing industry. The fund can receive donations and funding from any source, and the commissioner will use these resources to enhance industry safety and the department's ability to conduct search and rescue and recovery operations, including purchasing necessary equipment. The commissioner must consult with the Commercial Fishing Safety Council when making expenditures from the fund. Any interest earned on the fund will be credited back to it, and unspent balances will carry forward to the next fiscal year instead of reverting to the general fund. The bill provides an initial allocation of $500 in other special revenue funds for fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27 to establish the account. This legislation aims to improve safety and emergency response capabilities for commercial fishermen by creating a dedicated funding mechanism for training, equipment, and rescue operations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1708&snum=132